Man swinging machete on Waterfront Drive surrenders after negotiations

On June 11, 2020, at about 11:45 a.m., officers with the Eureka Police Department responded to the 1600 block of Waterfront Drive for the report of a male vandalizing a wall with spray paint.



The first officer on scene observed the same male swinging a machete wildly.  As the officer began to approach, the male fled on foot east on the waterfront trail.  Officers followed and located the male hiding under the Blue Ox Millworks building. 

While attempting to communicate with the male, officers located a backpack containing the machete and an axe.  The male continued to retreat further under the building, ultimately barricading himself in a corner amongst the post and pier foundation.

County Mental Health staff responded to the scene and assisted with negotiations.  The male eventually surrendered and was detained and transported to mental health for evaluation.  Criminal charges will be forwarded to the District Attorney for review.